Accra: The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and the Amen Amen Institute, a non-governmental organisation, have urged more Ghanaians to get into farming to increase the country’s food basket and help reduce hunger. They emphasized the importance of self-reliance in food consumption through government initiatives aimed at ensuring food security and meeting nutritional needs.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Gilbert Xorlanyo Ampeh, Director of Finance and Administration at MoFA, highlighted the significance of local food production during a float organized in collaboration with the Amen Amen Institute to mark this year’s World Food Day. The event, held on Saturday, aimed to encourage Ghanaians to take an active role in farming, with the saying, “Ghanaians must take charge of the food we eat. Garden is enough to feed a household,” resonating among participants.
The float commenced from Mantse Agbonaa in James Town, Accra, and proceeded along the Professor John Evans Atta Mills High Streets, culminating at the forecourt of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture where participants were addressed. This event was part of the lead-up to the official World Food Day commemoration on October 16, 2025.
According to the 2025 United Nations’ report, ‘The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World,’ an estimated 8.2 per cent of the global population, or between 673 and 720 million people, experienced hunger in 2024. Despite a decrease from previous years, the report pointed out the uneven progress in combating hunger, with increases in several subregions in Africa and Asia, and overall levels still above pre-pandemic figures.
Mr. Ampeh outlined MoFA’s ongoing initiatives, including the upcoming ‘nkonko nkitikiti’ project, set to launch later this year, aimed at further boosting food security in Ghana. He called on the public to support and participate in these projects to contribute to the national effort against hunger.
Additionally, Mr. Ampeh addressed the issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey, urging its cessation to protect farmlands and water resources vital for agriculture.
Mr. Daniel Reynolds, representing the Amen Amen Institute, highlighted the link between food security and peace. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to eradicate hunger and promote a future of inclusivity. The Amen Amen Institute also donated ?10,000 to MoFA to support the World Food Programme and brought farm produce to aid the Ministry’s mission.
World Food Day, observed annually on October 16, seeks to raise global awareness about hunger and the importance of healthy diets. The 45th edition will focus on the theme: ‘Hand in Hand for a Better Food and a Better Future.’